A Culture of Collectivism | Puzzle Pieces

An Ember to Remember: Collectivism in Community

“It is not good for man to be alone," a statement declared by the world's most noted and sold book. Whether one is a believer in biblical texts or not, this scripture established a tone and the importance of being in unison with others.  Though Genesis 2:18 is generally taught and associated with the context of marriage, it’s also related to the essence of community – the importance of collectivism. It’s not good for man to be alone, both male and female.

Alone in this context is centered on being alone without help, support, contact, or communication. Numerous psychological, social, and behavioral theories studied, observed, and researched can attest to this old text on communal and non-communal contact with others. Even with the naked eye or through observation, one can see and understand the value of connection and the power of COLLECTIVISM.

The Importance of Individualism – Solitude in Being Alone

Authentic collectivism among people cannot exist without the importance of individualism. Not to go extremely deep within the biblical text, but there were certain things Adam worked on before Eve was presented to him. Again, Genesis 2:18 is not limited to the context of marriage. It's in our individualism that we cultivate our crafts, skills, abilities, and behaviors. This personal development is a vital part of contributing to the collective. Before expanding our parts with others, we must recognize our abilities. These abilities are then increased or strengthened on a greater level when we find ourselves in the right environment with the right people.

Embracing "periods" of solitude(not for too long) is not a harmful habit of isolation but a time of self-discovery and personal growth. It can yield significant benefits, including developing a sense of independence, uncovering one's unique gifts and abilities, and identifying areas in our lives we need to work on or seek assistance from others. It's an opportunity for holistic rest and emotional regulation. A period of solitude can empower us, making us better equipped to contribute to our communities.

Learning in our individualism does not diminish the substance or importance of collectivism, nor does it disregard it. Some of the greatest world-changing ideas, inventions, and services have been curated by individuals who learn how to operate in their individualism and who learn their authentic selves. For instance, a scientist working alone in a lab may discover a groundbreaking cure, or an artist working in solitude may create a masterpiece that inspires a community. The stronger one possesses a strength of self, not through vanity or ego but through confidence, authenticity, and a desire to serve others, the greater they will influence others to do the same – COLLECTIVISM.

The Power of Collectivism

Healthy individualism builds authentic collectivism. This form of collectivism is not about conforming to a group's norms or losing individuality but about utilizing one's unique strengths and abilities for the greater good. The more people become aware of their strengths, abilities, and weaknesses, the more "likely" they will utilize their potential not just for themselves but also to help others. Suppose a person learns that they have great teaching abilities. In that case, they might attend conferences and workshops or register for collegiate courses to develop this skill to help educate others, be it academia or some other discourse. Building or repairing, cooking, cleaning, budgeting, listening, drawing, dancing, planning, organizing, and writing are some of the few abilities and skills individuals possess and can serve as an advantage not just for oneself but for the benefit of others when properly stewarded within a community or network of people to work as a whole collectively.

There will always be a need for a community or network of people to work together for the common good and even the common evil of others. Solely focusing on that which is good (Christ-like) when authentic collectivism is present, “everyone” can utilize their unique attributes. Authentic collectivism also shows appreciation for all involved, from those who lead on the frontlines to those in the background. Also, positions or roles that might seem insignificant or small make up the whole part of a community or network of people to work efficiently.

Whether collectivism is through family, a neighborhood, a work environment, friendships, a political call to bring change, or any other place of establishment where people must work together, everyone is needed and adds value in some capacity.

Understanding Where You Belong | The Puzzle Pieces

Everybody belongs somewhere. To believe in the divine things of God in Christ is also to believe He has rightly aligned us in the right places and spaces where we belong. These alignments serve on a personal and non-personal. A predestined type of alignment if we are willing to walk in it. Seasonal or temporary, where we are to be connected, eventually happens through faith.

It’s important to note that we sometimes face rejection when trying to understand where we belong. We will be rejected, and yes, sometimes we will reject others. Rejection is sometimes done out of ignorance, selfish desires, manipulation, and not seeing or wanting to believe someone else is valuable within a space or place. Cliché, but there are other times when rejection is a form of protection. This protection re-directs us to where we belong, where God will align us.

Finding the right space and place where you belong is essential, not merely for the support of others but also so that your attributes are not constricted or limited within the wrong environment. Again, whether it's seasonal or temporary.

Collectivism Starts with You | The Man in The Mirror

As mentioned, the more people learn about qualities, uniqueness, and weaknesses, the more significant their impact will be on the collective community. This includes supporting their families, administering a business, being an “elite” employee, volunteering within the local community, making honest political changes, etc. Our unique, God-given, authentic individual parts comprise the whole of authentic collectivism our culture needs—the puzzle pieces of all people working together.

1 Corinthians 12:27(amp) -- Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body, and individually [you are] members of it [each with his particular purpose and function].

1 Corinthians 12:18-27